La Loma, March 21, 2017
Drummond Ltd.’s held communication meetings at Pribbenow Mine facilities to discuss the company’s progress under the Environmental Management Plans for the La Loma and El Descanso Norte projects. The meetings were held from March 7-9. The purpose was to share the company’s progress and results during 2016, to hear comments and observations, and address any concerns, in an atmosphere of constructive dialogue with the residents in the areas of influence.
The meeting topics included the physical, biotic, and social compensation plan that the company is implementing in the towns in the area of influence of the La Loma and El Descanso mining projects. The communities that attended these talks were: Chiriguaná, La Jagua de Ibirico, El Paso, Agustín Codazzi and Becerril, which were represented by government employees and educational, religious and community leaders.
The best results of the Environmental Management Plan were related to the replanting and particulate matter control programs and the proper management of solid waste. In terms of social issues, progress and improvements were made to the community infrastructure and living conditions. Evidence was also presented on the increase of hiring and job creation between 2009 and 2016, thanks to the implementation of the ‘In House’ program. Through the program, Drummond seeks to train people from its areas of influence, by teaching them the skills they need and make it possible for them to be hired by the company.
The meetings were attended by Drummond’s various departments that are responsible for each of the topics: Human Resources, Environmental, Materials, and Community Relations, in order to provide information and accurate and informed answers to the attendees.
The talks by community members were related, for the most part, to issues regarding education, environmental impact on the air and water, and job opportunities. In addition, they expressed their appreciation for the opportunity for dialogue that Drummond provided. “I am happy with the communication and the way I was treated, it was a great blessing because there were many points that were cleared up for us. I think Drummond is a company that is committed to the Cesar region,” said Jaime Cadena, representative of the Municipal Council of Chiriguaná.
Drummond provides opportunities for communication to build bridges between the company and its neighboring communities. By doing so, it is able to encourage dialogue that allows for the exchange of ideas, and makes it possible to learn about the needs and opinions of the residents of the areas of influence.
